Bhaal's Endorsement in Baldur's Gate 3
The "Boon of Bhaal" in Baldur's Gate 3 refers to a potent blessing bestowed by Bhaal, the Lord of Murder, upon individuals who prove their devotion or are chosen by him. This typically translates to a significant combat advantage or a unique powerful ability.
Path to Obtaining Bhaal's Boon
Acquiring a boon from Bhaal is intrinsically linked to the main storyline involving Orin the Red and the Temple of Bhaal. The specifics can vary based on your character's origin:
- The Dark Urge: This origin has the most direct path. Key decisions involve confronting your past, defeating Orin, and ultimately choosing to accept Bhaal's claim. Accepting Bhaal after defeating Orin and being anointed as his Chosen directly grants his primary boon.
- Other Origins: While not becoming Bhaal's Chosen in the same way, other characters can interact with the Bhaalist plot. The most direct interaction for a non-Dark Urge character to potentially gain a Bhaal-related benefit is usually by becoming an Unholy Assassin of Bhaal by impressing Sarevok Anchev at the Murder Tribunal. However, the most definitive "Boon of Bhaal" is typically reserved for a Dark Urge who embraces their heritage.
The critical moment for the Dark Urge occurs after the defeat of Orin. Accepting Bhaal's gift and becoming his Chosen is the trigger for the boon.
Manifestations of Bhaal's Boon
A prominent boon specifically granted to Bhaal's Chosen (typically a Dark Urge who accepts their fate) is:
- Power Word: Kill (Bhaal's Boon variant): This is a powerful spell granted to Bhaal's Chosen. It allows the character to compel a creature with 100 hit points or fewer to die instantly. This is a once per long rest ability.
- Aura of Murder: As Bhaal's Chosen, you also gain an aura that makes enemies within a certain range Vulnerable to Piercing damage, unless they are Resistant or Immune to it.
For Dark Urge characters who fully embrace their lineage prior to this, the Slayer Form transformation can also be considered a major boon from Bhaal, offering a powerful, temporary combat transformation. Successfully navigating the Murder Tribunal as any character and becoming an Unholy Assassin grants the Bhaalist Armour and the Amulet of Bhaal, which are powerful items but distinct from a direct divine boon.
Implications of Bhaal's Favor
Receiving Bhaal's boon, especially as his Chosen, signifies a deep commitment to the god of murder. This choice carries substantial narrative weight, affecting interactions with companions, story progression, and potential game endings. It firmly places the character on a path defined by bloodshed and assassination.
